News

These young Syrian sisters and their mother sought refuge at a camp located far from the intensifying violence in Syria. More than half of Syria's refugees are children, and in great need of basic care items. (Photo: UNHCR/F. Juez)September 24, 2012

Baltimore, MD (IOCC) Hiba, 5, clings fearfully to her mother’s dress round the clock, and wakes up screaming in the middle of the night. Ever since Sami, 4, and his brother Rana, 2, fled Homs with their mother, loud sounds elicit screams and send them diving for cover under tables and beds. The violence that has engulfed Syria is taking a heavy toll on its children. They make up more than half of the 260,000 Syrian refugees pouring into neighboring countries such as Jordan and Lebanon, according to United Nations estimates. Many arrive with nothing, not even the most basic belongings. International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is attending to the immediate needs of these young refugees and their families with the distribution of emergency relief items such as health kits, infant supplies and bedding.

IOCC Jordan is working with local churches and relief partners to provide basic necessities like diapers, baby blankets and infant clothing to Syrian mothers seeking shelter at Za'atri refugee camp, where 60 percent of the 28,000 refugees are small children and infants.

The 11" X 12" full-color calendar, the latest in a popular series of calendars, features large calendar boxes (1-3/8" X 1-3/4") for recording important date reminders. Major saint and feast days traditionally celebrated in Orthodox countries around the world are listed, according to the New Calendar. The monthly themes are:

Your prayers are requested for the repose of the soul of our brother and concelebrant Fr. Justin Pierce, 84, retired at St. Luke Church in Erie, CO, who fell asleep in Christ in hospice care on Saturday, September 22nd, 2012. Condolences may be sent to Khouriya Patricia and the Pierces' two daughters c/o Hierodeacon Mark Berge of St. Luke/Erie at mark.berge@colorado.edu.

Divine services for Fr. Justin will be served according to the Western Rite at St. Luke/Erie by Fr. John Connely of St. Mark Church in Denver, CO: Tuesday at 6:00PM Vespers for the Dead; Wednesday at 11:00AM Matins for the Dead followed by the Requiem Mass. God being my Helper, I will be present on Wednesday morning to serve a Trisagion before Matins for the repose of Father Justin's soul. After the Mass, a Meal of Mercy will be served by the Ladies of St. Luke at their parish fellowship hall. Interment is scheduled for 2:30PM.

May God grant our brother Paradise. May He grant Khouriya Patricia and the Pierce family consolation. And may He grant you long life.

It is with extreme sadness that we inform you that our beloved brother in Christ, Deacon Howard Shannon of St. Athanasius Church in Goleta, California, fell asleep in the Lord on Friday, September 21, 2012. His Eminence, Archbishop JOSEPH has asked the parishes to remember him in your prayers for the departed for the next 40 days and to hold a special Trisagion for his eternal life. May God receive him in His Heavenly Kingdom and may his memory be eternal.

Fr. George Shalhoub, priest at the Basilica of St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church in Livonia, Michigan, recently offered four "Meditations on Mercy" at the 2012 Antiochian House of Studies Residency Program. The talks were presented each evening after the final benediction of Great Vespers during the first week of the program in early September, and were very well received by the 100 students and faithful present. Ancient Faith Radio has posted each talk, as well as an interview with Fr. George.

"I teach Liturgical Practice and I chose a theme every year and speak from my experience as a priest for over 40 years," Fr. George said. "In my talks, I asked, what does it mean when to use mercy with each other? Mercy is to listen, to comfort, to forgive, to strengthen, to encourage, all set in the context of prayer."

Father urged his audience to avoid becoming "professional" priests or deacons, because in doing so "we lose the art of being priests. And this subject can apply to everyone," he added. "In our world today, we find a breakdown occurs when communication dies; we're wired up but we're still not communicating with each other."

On Sunday, September 16, the live call-in broadcast Ancient Faith Today will feature host Kevin Allen's conversation with well-known author Kyriacos Markides. Markides' newly released book, The Inner River, chronicles his "pilgrimage to the heart of Christian spirituality," and speaks about his journey from materialism to shamanism, and then back home to the mystical Orthodox Christian faith of his youth.

A professor of sociology at the University of Maine, Markides is the best-selling author of The Mountain of Silence and Gifts of the Desert. "He is a bridge builder between Orthodox and non-Orthodox seekers," notes Ancient Faith Today host Allen. "We'll find out about his views of Darwinism, near-death experiences, universalism, and other topics that are a part of his fascinating inner journey. I'll also have a chance to ask him some of the hard questions that many who have read his books, have wondered about."

The call-in number for Ancient Faith Today is 1-855-AFRADIO (1-855-237-2346), and the link for the chatroom is posted shortly before the time of the program, which streams live at 8 P.M. Eastern Standard Time.

Carole Buleza, Director, Department of Christian EducationDirector of the Department of Christian Education, Carole Buleza, shares her thoughts at the beginning of the 2012-2013 Sunday School year.

Back to the Bible

As our last Festivals theme asserted, the Bible fills us with eternal joy; by my account: eternal and yet ever-new are the lessons it teaches, and joy comes from knowing Jesus Christ can speak to each of us through its words. Lately I have been reading St. Paul’s words in his epistles to the early Churches. In every one of them, his hope is that young Christians learn more and more about the Way of salvation. Even I, a Christian for over half a century, find a lesson each time I pick up my Bible.

As the Director of the Department of Christian Education, I would urge all of us to make the 2012 Creative Festivals theme an abiding theme for our lives. If only for a few minutes, open and read each day. I keep our Bible at the dinner table, and after we pray and everyone is served, I open and read a passage from the Gospels so my family will hear the name of Jesus, and His words, every day. I don’t “unpack” the message, I just read and close the Bible. Sometimes I begin with a phrase like, “Let’s see what Jesus is doing now.”

As a mother, I want my home centered on Christ, and this small effort—sometimes less than two minutes—opens the door so Christ can be present with us at our evening meal. If I could issue a directive to all Orthodox mothers to do the same, I would. If you need help in getting started, let me know: aodce@aol.com, or via our Facebook page, “Orthodox Christian Parenting.”

"Younger generations are increasingly turning to the Internet to learn and engage the original teachings of Christ nurtured and protected by the Orthodox Christian faith," said Father Chris Metropulos, Executive Director of the Orthodox Christian Network. "OCN is ready and eager to expand our education offerings online."

"Illumination Learning has been blessed to engage thousands of students of all ages throughout the world - children, parents, and adults - to access videos, podcasts, and blogs and learn from some of the great minds in Orthodoxy worldwide," said Jennifer Hock, Founder and President of Illumination Learning. "The OCN expands our reach and resources in providing Orthodox Christian education resources."

"Illumination Learning offers all of us the opportunity to learn without being limited by geography. Think of all the Orthodox speakers you'd love to hear who haven't come to your city or parish. With Illumination Learning, you can travel and learn without ever leaving your house! You can hear theologians from around the world, experts in fields that matter to you, and spiritual giants who proclaim the Gospel with zeal and love. It is the most readily available, easily accessible, and cost-effective way ever to sit at the feet of the greatest Orthodox minds of our time and experience the faith in a new way," continued Jennifer Hock.

Bishop John addresses students at St. Vladimir's SeminarySt. Vladimir's Seminary in Crestwood, New York, reports:

In his first visit to campus as a hierarch, His Grace The Right Rev. John Abdalah, auxiliary bishop for the Antiochian Archdiocese's Diocese of Worcester and New England, presided over the liturgy for the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos at Three Hierarchs Chapel on campus.

Bishop John received his Master of Divinity degree with the Class of 1984. For 33 years, he served as a priest of the Self-Ruled Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, before being consecrated as Auxiliary of the Diocese of Worcester and New England on December 11, 2011. He also holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in Pastoral Care from Pittsburgh Theological School, a Master's equivalency certificate in Pastoral Counseling from Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts.

As a late summer storm blew through the Westchester County campus, bringing wind and rain that relentlessly pounded the chapel, His Grace calmly and joyfully served alongside other Antiochian and seminary clergy.

MEMORY ETERNAL! Paul Saba, 88, of Largo, Florida, passed away on August 15, 2012. Paul was born in Cleveland, Ohio on October 1, 1923 to Gabriel and Pauline (Asha) Saba. Paul was a member of the Order of St. Ignatius and a founding member of St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, St. Petersburg, Florida. A veteran of the US Air Force, Paul was currently attending Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Safety Harbor, Florida. He was very active in the Orthodox Church and was president of the SOYO club several times.

Bishop Basil blesses Sheltering Tree building siteOn Saturday August 18, eight Orthodox clergy, future residents and their families, and friends of the Sheltering Tree gathered in an open lot in Bellevue, Nebraska--despite the threat of rain--to pray with His Grace, Bishop Basil of The Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America, as he blessed the building site for The Sheltering Tree I, a communal residence for developmentally disabled persons.

The Sheltering Tree I is the result of much faith and prayer and hard work. This first Sheltering Tree will be a home for 10 developmentally disabled persons who will enjoy independence in their own distinct apartments, surrounding common areas for community life. Live-in managers will provide support for the residents. The two-acre site was secured with funding via a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant, The Topeka Federal Home Loan Bank, and many personal offerings--totaling over $2 million.

God’s presence was evident at the blessing when the rainy clouds dispersed and warm rays of sunshine accompanied His Grace’s arrival at the site.

The Orthodox Institute Mid‐America is a pan‐Orthodox endeavor for continuing education of the faithful and is coordinated by the Orthodox Christian Education Commission Department of Teacher Training, Myra Kovalak, Director (mekovalak@gmail.com). Fr. Elias Issa, of the host parish, and event chairperson, Kathy Kelly cordially invite you to the 2012 Institute which will include an exhibit of the Holy Land. You may register by phone, email, or mail. Contact Kathy Kelly, e‐mail: teacheromara@aol.com, phone: 816.853.9998. The cost of the event, $35, includes lunch and materials.

The presenters will be Mat. Valerie Zahirsky, Al and Dee Kacere, and Carole Buleza. Participants can choose from three tracks of courses, “Scripture,” “Teacher Training II for Elementary,” or “Teacher Training II for MS/HS.”

The North American OCF Office announces the recent appointment of Fr. Michael J. Ellis to the position of North American Chaplain.

The North American Chaplain works across all Orthodox jurisdictions, providing resources and assistance to the chaplains who work directly with the students on campus. Fr Michael will be coordinating the OCF Chaplaincy Network of regional,district and local OCF chaplains and handling ecclesiastical/spiritual issues brought to his attention from both the staff of the OCF North American Office and the local OCF chapters.

Fr. Michael and his wife Presvytera Jesica, both originally from upstate New York, currently reside in Mansfield, OH with their two children Alexander and Sophia.

Fr. Michael is a graduate of the State University of New York, College at Brockport where he completed his undergrad work, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications Studies, emphasis Interpersonal and Organizational Communications.

On Sunday, September 2, the live, call-in radio program of Ancient Faith Radio featured the theme, "Back to the Future: A Reflection on the Past and Future Legacy of the 'Evangelical Orthodox' in Canonical Orthodoxy."

The guest was the V. Rev. Jon Braun, ex-Campus Crusade for Christ Regional Director and former leader of the Evangelical Orthodox Church. Fr. Peter Gillquist of blessed memory was originally scheduled to be interviewed on this program as well. As a tribute to his life and legacy, Conciliar Press has made Fr. Peter's booklet Finishing the Race available as a free download.

The call-in number for Ancient Faith Today is: 1-855-AFRADIO (1-855-237-2346), and it streams live at 5:00 pm Pacific, 7:00 pm Central, and 8:00 pm Eastern every other Sunday.

Glory to Jesus Christ who is the Resurrection and the Life! Glory forever!

St. George Cathedral in Coral Gables, Florida is saddened to inform you of the passing into eternal life of the handmaid of God, Nabiha Nasr, early this morning, August 29, 2012, at the age of 94. Nabiha, late widow of Jules Nasr, and matriarch of the Nasr family, was mother to five children, twelve grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. St. George Cathedral offers her sincerest condolences to her children, Michel (Cathedral Council President), Aimee, Mouna, Gretta, Sally, and their families. May the loving God who gave His only Son, grant rest to his handmaiden, Nabiha, with the Saints, and may He bless and comfort the Nasr family with his Grace.

Abe Abraham, the longest serving member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees, celebrated his 100th birthday on August 21. A celebration was held on Saturday August 18 with Vespers at St. Nicholas Church in Grand Rapids and a gala dinner at The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas. Almost 300 guests attended the tribute to Abe.

Abe was born in 1912 in Rashaya Al Wadi in Lebanon. At the age of nine, he and his mother, Zahia, crossed the Atlantic to meet up with his father, Sleyman, who had established a home and business in Towanda, KS. Abe three siblings were born in Kansas, the family returned to Lebanon for several years before returning to America and settling in Grand Rapids, MI. There, Sleyman established a retail candy and “five and dime” store. With the help of his sons, the business grew into a tobacco and candy wholesale distribution company. Today the company distributes groceries to convenience stores in eight Midwestern states.

The Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) recently uploaded a variety of videos to YouTube featuring the ongoing growth and progress of Orthodox churches in Africa.

Viewers can catch glimpses of African Orthodox Christians worshipping in liturgy, singing welcome greetings to visiting missionaries and clergy, dancing in community celebrations, and working on construction teams for church buildings.

Fifteen OCMC mission teams from May through December of this year will serve in Africa as well as other far flung locations such as Albania and Mongolia.

One of the most beautiful aspects of our Orthodox worship is the hymnography that is sung by chanters and choirs to lead the congregation in prayer. Antiochian Village's Byzantine Chant Workshop is designed for beginner and intermediate levels. Time will be spent chanting exercises / melodic formulas and liturgical hymns from music and text. This emphasis on learning and practicing formulas provides a learning environment for people with basic knowledge or no knowledge of the Byzantine Tones. All music is presented in western notation and will focus on the following three components:

We’re excited about the new academic year beginning Monday August 27th. We’ve opened new sections of all of our introductory Latin classes and our introductory Literature and Composition classes in order to accommodate all the registered students. We have several new Literature and Composition classes this year and have expanded our Homer classes to include a variety of additional ancient Greek Literature including Plato, Herodotus, Hippocrates, and Aesop.

Here are a few excerpts from some emails we received last year:

"Thank you for everything. We love, love, love the class. I am in awe of your patience and your lovely presence via the web." Amy M., New Hampshire

"Thank you for a great term. The kids have learned so much. They have expanded their vocabulary in both English and Latin, learned how to interact in an online classroom, how to prepare for a teacher who is not their parent, and how to learn academically from someone else with confidence." Alicia V., New Zealand

"I've taken foreign language classes at the high school, college and graduate school level - you are the best by FAR." Mary K., Texas

"She is really enjoying your class and is working hard on it. I am very glad we made the decision to enroll her this year." Jennifer C., Tennessee

We enjoy teaching at least as much as our students enjoy learning (and probably learn as much too).